Remote Key Fob Repair
Modern vehicles are equipped with remote keys that can lock, unlock and start the vehicle. However, like any piece of high-tech equipment it is not without its own problems.
Most of the time, these issues are simple to resolve. It can be as simple as resetting the device, which you should be able to do by following the resetting instructions in your owner's manual.
Check the Battery
The battery of a key fob powers the remote control function. It's a small and inexpensive part that needs to be replaced frequently to ensure the fob's functioning. There are many other reasons your key fob may not be functioning properly, besides the battery. This could be due to physical damage, exposure to water, or internal component failure. If your key fob has stopped functioning then replace the battery.
Make sure you have the right size battery. Almost all modern key fobs are powered by the CR2032 CR2032 battery, which is a standard three-volt unit which is readily available in many stores. The size of the majority of these batteries is stamped on the edges of the key fob. A quick search for the name of your car's brand should help you find the specific type of battery it takes.
Once you have the proper battery, carefully open your key fob, and then remove the battery. Take a photo of the inside of the fob to ensure that you put it back in the correct way. This simple step can save you from having to purchase a replacement fob because you made an error while putting it together.
It is important to be aware that certain key fobs come with an alternate mechanical key, called an emergency blade. This key blade is located within the key fob and allows you to unlock the door of the driver's seat of your vehicle in the event that the remote control fails. In order to access the key blade, you have to locate the notch at the center of the fob. The notch is typically a circular shape that is concealed by the fob's plastic casing.
If you want to check the battery voltage with more care, use a multimeter. The majority of modern key fobs come with built-in voltmeters, but you can buy a multimeter at the majority of hardware stores for a few bucks. Generally, the battery should read at 3.0 volts or higher. A reading lower than that could indicate the battery is at its end and should be replaced immediately.
Check the Buttons
Key fobs for cars may appear to be nothing more than high-tech items for convenience, but they aren't indestructible. It's not uncommon for these remotes to cease working after a while, especially if the vehicle is used frequently or if there's lots of physical abuse that is associated with it. Fortunately, a majority of the times it's easy to determine and fix the issue with remote key fobs, and changing the battery is typically all that is required.
A lot of modern car key fobs have several buttons that can be used for various purposes like locking and unlocking the doors, activating the panic button and opening the trunk. When a button on the fob is pressed, it sends a radio signal to a receiver inside the vehicle. Certain fobs come with an option to start the car, which is particularly useful in cold winter mornings and hot summer days.
The buttons on a key fob can be reset by simply snapping it off and ensuring that they're not broken or stuck. car key remote repair near me of a key fob may become loose in time, even though they are not intended to be removed. If the contacts on the button are disconnected from the circuit board A simple soldering job could be enough to put them back on track and return the fob to full function.
If a fob is damaged or dropped, the buttons might be broken, misaligned, or out of alignment. These kinds of issues are typically more difficult to repair on your own but they can be resolved by a local auto shop that has the right equipment and experience.
It's always an excellent idea to have an extra fob in case one you use regularly stops working. You'll be able to avoid being in the middle of nowhere without keys, or having to pay for a large amount to have your car towed to the dealer. Also, you should examine your insurance policy on your car, car club membership or extended warranty coverage to determine whether it will cover the cost of replacing or programming an entirely new fob.
Check the Casing
It's not common for the key fob to become wet, be it from a pool, a rainstorm or even your washing machine. The resulting water can play destruction to the electronics inside, leading to numerous malfunctions. The good thing is that keys can typically be kept from the brink of death by thoroughly drying it out and following a few simple steps.
The first step is to ensure that the buttons are functioning correctly. This usually involves removing, cleaning and reassembling the buttons. If the buttons do not pop back in or feel stuck, it's time to replace the remote.
You should also check the case to ensure there is nothing that could be affecting the operation of the key fob. Use tweezers to open the case and remove the battery but don't disassemble the circuit board or antennas. They have electric current flowing through them that keep the key fob's programming to your vehicle. And should you disrupt these circuits, you'll need to visit a dealer or select Interstate All Battery Center location to re-program it.
After you have removed and replaced the battery, it's an ideal idea to dry the key fob by putting it in the bag of a plastic bag with silica gel packets. This will avoid future moisture problems and will make your key fob more durable.
If the fob does not work, you should visit a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in the model and make of your vehicle. They can reprogramme the key fob of your particular vehicle and hopefully restore it to full functionality.
If all else fails, you can purchase a replacement keyfob online or in your local NAPA Auto Parts shop. These DIY remotes look as the factory key fob but are much more affordable and can be easily connected with your vehicle using simple instructions. NAPA provides a variety of replacements that you can program in a matter of minutes.
Check the Connections
Your key fob may stop working even though it is still programmed for your car. This could be caused by various reasons that include broken batteries or buttons. If this is the case, you may be able to fix it yourself by doing basic maintenance.
It is important to first verify that your backup remote is able to lock and unlock the doors of your car. If it can't, you might have a problem with your main remote. If you can't, then it's time to try replacing the battery in the backup remote.
It's a great idea disassemble your key fob before replacing the battery and inspect the circuit board. You'll want to make sure that there aren't any damaged solder joints that require to be repaired by re-soldering. After that you can replace the battery and put back together the key fob.
Once you've replaced your battery and reassembled your key fob, it's time to test its connection to your vehicle. This can be done by inserting a mini flathead screwdriver into the notch at the bottom of your key fob. Then, you can break your key fob's two halves and remove the circuitboard gently. Make sure to insert a brand new CR 2032 3V battery, making sure that it's inserted with the negative side facing downwards. Once you've successfully inserted the circuit board, you can rebuild the key fob and try again.
If this does not resolve the issue, you might have a bigger problem. In this case, call your dealer or a service shop that is specifically geared to the make of your vehicle. They can diagnose the problem with a radio frequency test which is a gadget that determines if your key fob is sending a signal to your car's computer.
We hope that this guide has been helpful to anyone experiencing issues with their car's key fob. If you have any other questions or concerns, don't hesitate contact us for assistance. We'll be happy to assist you get on the road again in Deptford or Cherry Hill.